Together, We Shall

The episode blends heart, humor, and practical wisdom — a perfect representation of the Together We Shall spirit.Angel Ally and Disability Inclusion Advocate Jill Huffman, Race Director for the Space Force 10 Miler and Deputy Director for the Air Force Marathon, join us for a conversation ranging from humorous banter to deeply meaningful reflections on accessibility in racing, logistics planning, the military community, grief, and the power of running for others. Jill shares how she brought Ainsley’s Angels to the Air Force Marathon, what race directors need from ambassadors to ensure accessibility, and why “special treatment” is really just equitable support. Her heartfelt personal story of loss and how “the Marines are coming” became her grounding mantra.Details and registration: USAFMARATHON.comRUNSPACEFORCE.comMarine Corps Marathon - https://donate.ainsleysangels.org/51mcm or [email protected] Audio version of the Together, We Shall Podcast can be found on Buzzsprout (link below), on the Apple Podcast app, as well as on Spotify, Amazon, and the Ainsley’s Angels YouTube channel for those seeking closed captioning or just like to watch vice listen to podcasts. https://twspodcast.buzzsprout.com  Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected]

Episode 62 brings the heart, the history, and the humor. Rooster and Joe reflect on the 10 year anniversary of Ainsley’s passing, the launch of the “10 Years Later” video series, and the legacy that continues to grow. They welcome special guest Teri Durrin — the beloved “Chair Lady” of Adaptive Star — to talk about her family’s Marine Corps roots, the evolution of adaptive equipment, and a huge announcement: Adaptive Star is officially sponsoring the Ainsley’s Angels Charity Tent at the Marine Corps Marathon. It’s an episode full of emotion, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes magic that keeps our riders rolling.Marine Corps Marathon info, https://ainsleysangels.org/runwiththemarines/

What begins as lighthearted chatter quickly shifts into a powerful, deeply personal conversation about a mom’s journey as a mother, advocate, athlete, and leader. This powerful episode with Tricia Benton — leader, advocate, and 2023 Ainsley’s Angels Joe Orth Award recipient — navigating two premature births to raising her “triple‑threat” daughter Bailey and building a thriving Ainsley’s Angels community in Southern California, Tricia shares a raw, inspiring journey of resilience, family, and choosing joy even in the hardest moments.  Tricia’s story is a reminder that advocacy often begins and leadership expands during our lived experiences. ⭐ The Moment Everything Changed Time Hack 9:45-10:30— “It sucks.”  “What sucks?” “This life.”  “Sucks for you or for her? Then make a choice. Make it good. Give her a good life.” — Tricia’s father “Something on that day just clicked, and that’s when I became an advocate for my kid.” — TriciaMarine Corps Marathon info https://ainsleysangels.org/runwiththemarines/

Episode 60 of the "Together We Shall Podcast" features Jana Rugg (Ainsley's Angels in Tulsa Ambassador) discussing her deeply personal journey of adoption and finding her biological parents.  "If there's something scary that you've thought about doing, do it." -Jana RuggIn this episode, Jana Rugg shares her extraordinary journey — from being born in a home for unwed mothers, to growing up as a caregiver, to losing both adoptive parents far too young, and finally to reconnecting with the biological family she never thought she’d meet.Her story includes a heartbreaking first “no,” a life‑changing second chance, and a reunion 48 years in the making. Today, Jana stands as a leader, a marathoner, and the ambassador of Ainsley’s Angels in Tulsa — living proof that courage, curiosity, and hope can rewrite a life.Here are some memorable quotes from the podcast, with timestamps: "The other part of the equation is I make content, I don't consume it." - Rooster Rossiter (1:55) "But it doesn't matter because ultimately, like making awareness of stories and journeys, don't need a specific day, week or month." - Rooster Rossiter (4:19) "And my parents always told me that I was adopted. There was never a moment that I remember learning that I was adopted... I kind of thought I was a little bit better than everybody else when I was little bitty." - Jana (6:57) "I really, it really did give me a good, confident, positive feeling about being adopted from the beginning to be told that I was picked." - Jana (7:16) "And that's why Ainsley's Angels was such a draw for me when I discovered it." - Jana (9:11)  "It never crossed my mind that someone would say no." - Jana (29:19) "You never really just have one more chance." - Jana (51:45) "You can't force the timing when you're trying to recruit someone for a job and you can't force it in a relationship." - Jana (55:57) "Take the chance because you can't always try again." - Jana (1:10:45)Hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll!If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected] To join our MCM team please go to, https://ainsleysangels.org/runwiththemarines/

Marine Corps Marathon Journey!  This episode of the Together We Shall podcast centers on the camaraderie, history, and impact of the Ainsley’s Angels community through the lens of the Marine Corps Marathon weekend. The hosts welcome Dan Cruz, a long-time ally and communications professional in the endurance-sports world, to share his journey—from sports PR beginnings to becoming a full-fledged Ainsley’s Angels marathoner. Rooster and Joe reflect on Dan’s long-standing role as a national advocate for inclusion, praising his authenticity and leadership.  During the DC weekend, Dan received Ainsley’s Angels’ Presidential Coin for Inclusion Excellence—a recognition reserved for exceptional allies. Dan describes inclusion as beginning with respect, linking it to consistency in actions and relationships. Discussion highlights the mutual joy of allyship—helping others while being personally fulfilled through connection and shared mission. Behind-the-Scenes at the Marine Corps Marathon: The hosts share humorous race-morning stories (alarms, 4 AM wake-ups, “never miss a movement” moments). Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected] Key moments and takeaways from this episode include:Inclusion through Action: Accessibility and respect are the foundation of true inclusion. Legacy of Service: Ainsley’s Angels continues to unite communities through running, compassion, and advocacy. Consistency Matters: Relationships built on authenticity and service create lasting impact. Shared Humanity: The marathon symbolizes life’s challenges and the strength found in community. ✨ “From the start line to the Iwo Jima Memorial, this episode captures the heart of inclusion, friendship, and purpose. Join Rooster, Joe, and special guest Dan Cruz as they relive an unforgettable Marine Corps Marathon weekend — filled with laughter, life lessons, and a full-circle moment of allyship.” #TogetherWeShall #AinsleysAngels #MarineCorpsMarathon #InclusionMatters #RunningForInclusion #TeamCassidy #AngelAlly #PurposeDriven #runwiththemarines #podcast

On this episode of the Together We Shall podcast, we sit down with Maurelhena Walles, founder of Equity Design, to talk about transforming communities through movement, equity, and inclusive design. From NYC schoolyards to global impact, her story is powerful, personal, and inspiring. 💪🏽🌍🗣️ “We aim to bridge the gap between health, wealth, and life expectancy.”🎙️ Listen now to hear how she's bridging gaps in health, wealth, and life expectancy through physical activity and community empowerment. To learn more about Equity Design, check them out here, https://www.equitydesigninc.com/Audio version of the Together, We Shall Podcast can be found on Buzzsprout (link below), on the Apple Podcast app, as well as on Spotify, Amazon, and the Ainsley’s Angels YouTube channel for those seeking closed captioning or just like to watch vice listen to podcasts. https://twspodcast.buzzsprout.com  Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected]

In this inspiring episode, hosts Rooster Rossiter and Joe Orth sit down with Billy Price, co-founder of Billy Footwear, to explore resilience, innovation, and community.Billy shares his life-changing story of a fall that left him a quadriplegic, his early struggles with identity and independence, and how a simple need — putting on his own shoes — led to the creation of a global footwear brand. With humility and grit, Billy explains how universal design transformed Billy Footwear from a side project into a company that empowers thousands, including athletes in the Ainsley’s Angels community.The conversation touches on mindset shifts (“Why not me?”), the importance of confidence in what you wear, and the power of teamwork—whether in rehab, on the racecourse, or in business. Billy also discusses future plans for expanding the brand and giving back through a philanthropic initiative, Billy Cares.👉 Tune in for a story of perseverance, purpose, and how a single idea can open doors for countless others.Use this link to get a 10% off discount on your pair(s) of Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=Ainsleys_Angels Ainsley's Angels will earn a 10% donation from each shoe purchased made through this link, furthering its efforts to foster and educate more Angel Allies across America. Each September, we recognize Suicide Prevention Month as a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time. If you or someone you know is struggling please let them know someone is here to help. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Joshua Taylor, founder of the Facebook page Disabled, Not Unable, shares his personal journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which led him from being a commercial truck driver to a full-time wheelchair user and passionate disability advocate. He speaks candidly about the grief of losing abilities, career, and long-held aspirations—but also how those shifts opened doors to new purpose, especially through adaptive sports and his involvement with Ainsley’s Angels.Joshua discusses his proactive work with local government in Michigan, including speaking at a City Council meeting (post-medical procedure!) to defend Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts amid political pressures to remove them.The episode ties everything back to movement, advocacy, and dignity, spotlighting inclusion as a right—not a luxury—and how the smallest changes, like adaptive playgrounds or pop-up privacy tents, can shift someone’s entire world.Interested in applying for the Ally Development Program? Click https://ainsleysangels.org/adp/. Want to run with the Marines in our nation's capital? Click, https://ainsleysangels.org/runwiththemarines/Audio version of the Together, We Shall Podcast can be found on Buzzsprout (link below), on the Apple Podcast app, as well as on Spotify, Amazon, and the Ainsley’s Angels YouTube channel for those seeking closed captioning or just like to watch vice listen to podcasts. https://twspodcast.buzzsprout.com  Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected]

Ainsley's Angels Senior Vice President of Programs, Shaun Evans, joins Joe and Rooster, as the three share recent stories about thier sons. Three Proud Dads and a few thoughts about the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend. Audio version of the Together, We Shall Podcast can be found on Buzzsprout (link below), on the Apple Podcast app, as well as on Spotify, Amazon, and the Ainsley’s Angels YouTube channel for those seeking closed captioning or just like to watch vice listen to podcasts. https://twspodcast.buzzsprout.com  Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Rooster and Joe return from a year-long podcast break and are joined by Amanda Turner, a witty and insightful advocate living with a disability. Amanda shares stories from her vacation, her journey from being pushed in races to racing independently, and her humorous approach to advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of inclusive humor, planning for long-term care, and building two-way bridges between disabled and non-disabled communities. Audio version of the Together, We Shall Podcast can be found on Buzzsprout (link below), on the Apple Podcast app, as well as on Spotify, Amazon, and the Ainsley’s Angels YouTube channel for those seeking closed captioning or just like to watch vice listen to podcasts. https://twspodcast.buzzsprout.com Together, We Shall Podcast is hosted by Kim ‘Rooster’ Rossiter, President and Co-Founder of Ainsley’s Angels of America, and Joe Orth, Executive Vice President of Ainsley’s Angels. This inclusive podcast takes you into a world of tangents and thoroughfares, focusing on a conversation to be determined. Highlighting current events, insightful antidotes and life lessons with banter, sit back and listen to a little bit of humor and a few emotional deep dives during each episode. Let’s roll! If you would like to join us on the podcast, place to share/tell stories and connect, or nominate someone to join us on the podcast, email us at [email protected]